The last thing Laurel needs is another complication—especially one who’s famous.
Between single parenting, an uneasy relationship with her ex-husband, and struggling to heal from past heartache, Laurel’s plate is already overflowing. But fate clearly isn’t listening, because suddenly Adam—a charming, grounded actor—stumbles unexpectedly into her life.
As a hesitant friendship sparks into romance, Laurel tries to convince herself it’ll never last. Adam’s world is camera flashes and relentless scrutiny, while hers is parent-teacher conferences and scraped knees. As their worlds collide and tensions rise, tragedy forces Laurel and Adam to confront their deepest fears and decide if what they’ve found is worth the risk.
Can they build something lasting, even when reality seems set on tearing them apart?
Tender, heartfelt, and deeply relatable, Jumping in Puddles is a story about second chances, the complexities of love, and the strength it takes to start again.
Now available in paperback and ebook formats from Lulu.com, Amazon, and Indigo. AUDIOBOOK COMING SOON!
PRAISE FOR ‘JUMPING IN PUDDLES’
“I finished your book last night and I really enjoyed it! It was very well written and I loved the surprise of Jill’s accident…I hate when I can foresee everything. I cried twice! Had a hard time putting it down! It was nice to have the Canadian references. I look forward to reading your next novel.”
Phyllis St. Michel – Amazon
“Perfect blend of romance and story telling!”
Lauren – Goodreads
“A great love story between Adam and Laurel. The suspense in how their story will progress is addicting – hard to put down! Well done!”
Chelsey Mousseau – Goodreads
“Really enjoyable… And I hope we get to meet these characters again!”
Marion Markham – Amazon
“Home sick today and picked up this book. Great read. The day flew by as I got pulled into this story. A great story of romance but also really enjoyed the other character stories weaved into it.”
Cindy – Goodreads
“Hopeful and Healing in the Best Way
There’s something deeply human about this book. It’s not just about falling in love, it’s about the messiness of rebuilding a life and letting someone new in. The emotional layers are rich without being overwhelming. I finished it feeling hopeful, like I’d just taken a deep breath after a storm. Absolutely recommend it.”
Emilia Royce – Goodreads
“Jumping in Puddles delivers a beautifully layered story of love, resilience, and second chances. With authentic characters and a heartfelt balance between real life struggles and unexpected romance, this book captures both vulnerability and hope in a way that feels deeply relatable. A touching, well crafted read that lingers long after the final page.”
Evie – Goodreads
“Jumping in Puddles is one of those books that sneaks up on you and refuses to let go. From the very first page, I connected with Laurel her struggles as a single mom, her complicated past, and the quiet resilience she carries felt so real and relatable. She’s not a “perfect heroine,” and that’s exactly what made me root for her.
Adam was such a pleasant surprise. I half expected the cliché “famous actor swoops in” storyline, but instead, the author gave us a grounded, warm, and layered character. The romance builds slowly and tenderly, more like a friendship that blossoms into something deeper. It felt natural, not rushed, and the push-and-pull between their two very different worlds added just the right amount of tension.
What really stood out to me was how the story balanced lighthearted, sweet moments with the harder realities of heartbreak, parenting, and second chances. It never felt overly dramatic, but it also didn’t shy away from the messy parts of love and life. By the time tragedy struck, I was completely invested in whether Laurel and Adam would find a way to hold onto each other.
This isn’t just a romance it’s about healing, risk, and the courage it takes to open your heart again. Beautifully written, heartfelt, and full of hope. Highly recommend if you enjoy emotional love stories that feel grounded in real life.”
Emelia Hendrix – Goodreads
“Jumping in Puddles is an uplifting and emotionally rich novel that blends heartfelt realism with the magic of unexpected love. Laurel’s journey is both moving and empowering, while Adam brings warmth and depth that make their connection shine. A touching reminder that healing and happiness are possible, even after heartbreak.”
Lilah – Goodreads
“Finished! I laughed, I cried. Thoroughly enjoyed the read. Great job Cec! Looking forward to the next one!”
Angie Kelly – Facebook
“Jumping in Puddles” is heartfelt and emotional in the best way. The balance of family struggles, romance, and personal healing made me completely invested in Laurel’s story. A powerful reminder that love can come when you least expect it.”
Lucy’s Hub – Goodreads
“It took me a while, (I’m not a reader) but I just finished your book. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. It kept my interest all the way to the end and brought out my emotions many times. Congratulations on a good romance.”
Marcia Nichols – Facebook
“Jumping into Puddles is the kind of book that quietly settles into your heart and stays there. The author has a remarkable ability to stir deep emotion without ever forcing it. Every scene feels raw and authentic, written with such vivid detail that it often reads as though she has personally lived through the very moments she describes.
The characters are layered, flawed, and incredibly real. I found myself fully invested in their journeys — celebrating their small victories and aching through their struggles. Long after finishing the final page, I’m still wondering what’s happening next in their lives, which speaks to how powerfully the story lingers.
It’s a beautifully written, emotionally resonant read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend!
Andrea Baya – Goodreads